Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar has alleged that the 1971 killing of intellectuals was part of a planned conspiracy by the Indian Army and intelligence agencies. Speaking at a discussion organized by Dhaka North Jamaat on the occasion of Martyred Intellectuals Day, he claimed that historical evidence shows the killings occurred when Indian forces had already entered Dhaka.

Porwar argued that left-leaning and pro-India intellectuals have long blamed Jamaat for the massacre, but he said new information indicates Indian involvement. He stated that by early December 1971, Indian troops were effectively controlling Dhaka, making it implausible for Pakistani forces or their collaborators to organize such killings. Citing accounts from Rao Farman Ali and others, he claimed Pakistan’s military had planned to surrender on December 14, but the date was postponed at India’s request.

His remarks have drawn criticism from historians and liberation war researchers who maintain that pro-Pakistani militias were responsible for the targeted killings of Bangladesh’s leading intellectuals.

The United Nations has strongly condemned a deadly drone strike on its logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, Sudan, which killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injured eight others. The peacekeepers were serving under the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the attack as a grave violation that could constitute a war crime under international law.

Sudan’s army blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the assault, amid an ongoing civil conflict between the two sides that has lasted over two years. The RSF has not yet issued a statement. Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus expressed deep sorrow and condemned the attack, calling it an act against international peace and humanity.

Dhaka has pledged close coordination with the UN to repatriate the bodies of the fallen soldiers and ensure proper medical care for the injured. The incident underscores growing risks for peacekeepers operating in Sudan’s volatile conflict zones.

Two US soldiers and an interpreter were killed in central Syria during a joint mission with Syrian forces near Palmyra, following an attack by Islamic State (ISIS) militants. Three other American soldiers were injured in the assault, which occurred on December 13, according to the Pentagon. The attack took place less than a month after Washington and Damascus signed an agreement to cooperate against ISIS.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the soldiers were meeting local leaders when a gunman opened fire. The assailant, reportedly a member of Syria’s security forces with extremist leanings, was killed at the scene. Syrian state media confirmed that two Syrian security officers were also wounded. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that any group targeting Americans would face “dire consequences.”

President Donald Trump condemned the attack as “horrific” and promised “severe retaliation” via his Truth Social platform, calling the fallen soldiers “great patriots.” The incident risks straining fragile US-Syria cooperation and could prompt expanded counterterrorism operations in the region.

Two US soldiers and a local interpreter were killed in an ISIS ambush near Palmyra, Syria, on Saturday, December 13, according to US Central Command (CENTCOM). The attack reportedly involved a single ISIS militant who opened fire on a joint US-Syrian patrol vehicle before being killed in a counter-assault. CENTCOM confirmed the deaths via social media, adding that several others had been injured in earlier related incidents.

US envoy Tom Barrack stated that the attack targeted a joint patrol unit operating in the region, which remains volatile despite years of counterterrorism operations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the assailant was neutralized by accompanying forces. The identities of the fallen soldiers are being withheld until families are notified.

Officials noted that the area where the attack occurred is outside the control of Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Shara, underscoring the persistent instability in central Syria. The incident highlights the enduring threat posed by ISIS remnants and the risks faced by coalition troops stationed in the region.

A shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island left two people dead and eight others critically injured on Saturday, December 13, according to local authorities. The incident occurred during an examination session, prompting an immediate campus lockdown and emergency alerts. The suspect, described as wearing black clothing, fled the scene on foot and remains at large.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed the casualties and said the numbers could change as investigations continue. Police found no weapon at the scene, and the shooter’s identity has not been released. The university issued an emergency message at 4:22 p.m., warning students to lock doors, silence phones, and stay hidden until further notice. Despite initial reports online claiming the suspect had been captured, police have not confirmed any arrest.

The shooting has reignited concerns about campus safety and gun violence in the United States. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine how the attacker entered and exited the university premises undetected.

A powerful syndicate within Bangladesh’s Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) has allegedly taken control of the expatriates’ welfare sector, undermining the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment. Reports suggest that senior BMET official Abdul Hai, along with foreign labor counselors and a recruiting agency owner, has built an extensive network manipulating labor export approvals and engaging in illicit financial transactions.

Documents reviewed by investigative reporters indicate that despite official transfer orders, Abdul Hai continues to hold his position, allegedly using political connections and financial influence. The syndicate is accused of favoring specific agencies, particularly TM Overseas, in securing lucrative labor export contracts to Iraq and Cambodia, while sidelining others. Allegations also link the group to passport fraud and the trafficking of female workers to Saudi Arabia.

Officials fear retaliation and claim investigations by the ministry and the Anti-Corruption Commission have stalled. The scandal raises serious concerns about governance, transparency, and the protection of migrant workers in one of Bangladesh’s largest foreign exchange-earning sectors.

Bangladeshi law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation after an audio recording from a Telegram group named 'Awami League Online Community' went viral, allegedly exposing plans for coordinated violence in Dhaka and Chattogram ahead of the upcoming 13th national election. The leaked audio, reportedly shared by an Al Jazeera investigative journalist, features discussions about a multi-phase operation and references to external support and weapon licenses.

The incident follows recent attacks on independent and opposition candidates, including an assassination attempt on Sharif Osman Hadi and a deadly assault on BNP candidate Ershad in Chattogram. Political leaders across parties have expressed fear of renewed 'target killings' and urged authorities to ensure safety. Police and intelligence units are intensifying patrols, weapon recovery drives, and surveillance of suspected militant networks.

Officials have identified 15 potential cross-border arms routes from India and Myanmar, raising concerns about external involvement. Security agencies have been instructed to prioritize disarmament operations and candidate protection to prevent election-related unrest.

Law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh are investigating large and unusual financial transactions linked to Faisal Karim Masud, the prime suspect in the shooting of independent candidate and Inquilab Monch spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. Faisal, a former leader of the now-banned Chhatra League, reportedly maintained close ties with exiled political figures and was seen with Hadi days before the attack. Authorities have announced a reward of 5 million taka for information leading to his arrest.

Investigators found that Faisal’s bank accounts received significant deposits from both domestic and foreign sources shortly after the July political upheaval. Intelligence officials are examining whether these funds were transferred through legal channels and if they were connected to any political patronage. Faisal, who owns an IT firm and holds membership in the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), is also under scrutiny for his rapid political rise and alleged links to banned political networks.

The case has raised concerns about political violence ahead of the 13th parliamentary elections and renewed debate over the integrity of the justice system following Faisal’s earlier bail in an arms case.

Fifteen army officers accused in two enforced disappearance cases and one murder case linked to the July uprising were brought before the International Crimes Tribunal-1 in Dhaka on Sunday morning. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder with two other members, is hearing three separate cases involving alleged crimes against humanity committed under the previous Awami League government.

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam earlier presented charges against 17 individuals, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her security adviser Major General (Retd.) Tariq Ahmed Siddiq, in the Taskforce for Interrogation (TFI) cell disappearance case. Seven accused remain fugitives, while ten are in custody. In a separate case concerning disappearances at the JIC cell, Hasina and 12 military officers face five formal charges. Another case involves the killing of 28 people in Rampura during the July uprising, with two Border Guard officers detained.

The tribunal has set today for defense arguments in all three cases. Legal analysts note that these proceedings mark a significant phase in Bangladesh’s ongoing accountability process for alleged human rights violations.

A parked passenger bus caught fire late Saturday night at Genda Bus Stand on the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in Savar. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on the Aricha-bound lane, according to local fire officials. No casualties were reported, and firefighters from the Savar Fire Service quickly brought the blaze under control.

Warehouse Inspector Meherul Islam of the Savar Fire Service said the cause of the fire remains unknown, though initial assessments suggest possible arson. The extent of property damage has not yet been determined. Savar Model Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge Arman Ali confirmed that police visited the scene but have not located the bus driver or owner.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine who was responsible for the fire and how it started. Officials have urged witnesses to come forward as they examine security footage and other evidence to establish whether the incident was deliberate.

Bangladeshi law enforcement has arrested Abdul Hannan, the owner of the motorcycle allegedly used in the shooting attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and a key figure in the July Revolution movement. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) detained Hannan in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur area on Sunday morning and later handed him over to Paltan police. The motorcycle, bearing registration number 54-6375, was identified through CCTV footage.

Police and intelligence agencies have intensified investigations, suspecting that anti-state groups may have supported the attack as part of a broader conspiracy to destabilize the upcoming February parliamentary elections. Authorities are also probing possible links to expelled political figures, including former Jubo League leader Ismail Hossain Samrat, reportedly in India. Security agencies have alerted airports and border points to prevent suspects from fleeing the country.

The attack has heightened security concerns among political leaders and activists. Dhaka Metropolitan Police has announced expanded surveillance and a review of parole-listed criminals to prevent further incidents.

Bangladesh today marks Martyred Intellectuals Day, commemorating the tragic killings of the nation’s brightest minds on December 14, 1971. On this day, as Pakistan’s defeat became inevitable, occupation forces and their local collaborators abducted and executed teachers, doctors, journalists, artists, and other intellectuals. Their bodies were later found in mass graves at Rayerbazar and Mirpur. The day’s official observances began early morning with floral tributes at the Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals Memorial by President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, followed by ceremonies at Rayerbazar.

Political parties including BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami also organized separate programs, discussions, and flag-hoisting ceremonies. In their messages, the President urged building a non-communal, equitable Bangladesh to honor the martyrs’ ideals, while Dr. Yunus emphasized their intellectual leadership during the Liberation War. BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman called for strengthening democracy and freedom of expression to fulfill their vision. The day remains a solemn reminder of the nation’s sacrifice and enduring commitment to justice and national unity.

Bangladeshi law enforcement agencies have launched a full-scale investigation into the attempted murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Moncho and a key figure in the July Movement. Authorities suspect that expelled Dhaka South Jubo League leader Ismail Hossain Samrat, now reportedly in India, may have been involved in orchestrating the attack. Police spent Saturday collecting evidence and analyzing CCTV footage, identifying Faisal Karim Masud, a banned Chhatra League cadre, as a prime suspect.

Investigators believe the shooting may have been part of a broader conspiracy to disrupt the upcoming February parliamentary elections. Security agencies have alerted airports and border checkpoints to prevent suspects from fleeing the country. The Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch (DB) and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) are jointly pursuing leads, interviewing multiple individuals, and compiling lists of known criminals currently out on bail.

The attack has heightened security concerns among political groups and candidates linked to the July Movement. Police say the case filing process is underway as they continue to verify motives and identify all participants involved.

Two members of the July Revels organization were injured in an attack in Dhaka’s Uttara area on Saturday evening. The incident occurred on a road in Sector 4 as the pair were returning from a human chain protest related to the earlier shooting of Osman Hadi. Witnesses said unidentified assailants struck them with sticks before fleeing the scene. The injured were taken to USB Specialized Hospital near Rajuk College for treatment.

Police sources confirmed the assault took place around 6:30 p.m., though the attackers’ identities remain unknown. Uttara Division Deputy Commissioner Shahriar Hossain told *Amar Desh* that investigators received conflicting statements regarding the circumstances of the attack and are verifying the details. No arrests have been made so far.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the perpetrators. The incident has raised safety concerns among members of the July Revels group, who have recently been active in public demonstrations following the Osman Hadi shooting.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadik Kayem has expressed regret over a misunderstanding caused by his earlier social media post following reports that Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and potential independent candidate for Dhaka-8, had been shot. In a Facebook post on Saturday night, Kayem clarified that his choice of words led to confusion and apologized for any misinterpretation.

Kayem also praised BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi for retracting a statement that had been influenced by AI-generated images and misinformation, calling it a positive step toward improving political culture. He emphasized that democratic politics should allow debate and disagreement, but not rely on fake or unverified content. Kayem reiterated his commitment to building a just Bangladesh while remaining vigilant against what he described as authoritarian and violent political forces.

The apology has been noted as an example of accountability in political communication amid growing concerns over misinformation and AI-generated content in Bangladesh’s political discourse.